Newcastle United midfielder Andros Townsend has been a surprise inclusion in the preliminary squad for the Euro 2016.
After having spent much of his career with Tottenham, the winger moved to Newcastle United only in January. It may be one of the worst decisions by a player in recent memory, as Newcastle have been relegated to the Championship. Transfer rumours immediately began circulating thatTownsend would look for a return to the Premier League almost immediately. His reputation as a good player was in danger if he continues to play in the second division.
The possibility of featuring at the Euro 2016 still remains healthy forTownsend given that he had a good end to the season despite relegation to the second division. For the time being, the 24-year-old is not thinking too far ahead since he is only in the preliminary squad. Roy Hodgson has provided a few surprises in his selection policy. He has decided to go with only three central defenders. Hodgson is of the opinion that this decision allows him to be more flexible in offence. The inclusion of Townsend appears to have been made possible because of this decision.
Townsend has finished the league campaign with four goals and two assists in 13 appearances for Newcastle.”Some people were reporting I was in the squad, some that I was out, so it was real relief when I was named in the provisional squad. Now it is up to me to force my way into the final 23. The start of the season was a disappointment but I always had the faith that if I could get a run of games, my form would get back to where I want it to be and I could break back into the England squad.It has worked out that way, so I am delighted,” said Townsend.